Children's Book Illustrator Needed

Illustration Brief – Russell the Hedgehog: Book One – Russell Leaves Home ## Overview Russell the Hedgehog is an illustrated chapter book for children aged 6–10. The tone is adventurous, humorous, heartwarming, and full of wonder. The story follows Russell, a young hedgehog who leaves the safety of home and sets out on a series of adventures. Along the way he learns to surf, skydive, explore a dark forest, and raft a river with a tribe of Rakali (Australian water rats). The illustrations should capture the excitement of discovery, the humour of Russell's mishaps, and the warmth of the friendships he forms. The artwork should appeal to both children and the adults reading with them. --- ## Artistic Style Preferred style: * Painterly children's book illustration * Warm, natural lighting * Expressive characters * Visible brushwork or canvas texture * Rich environments with a sense of wonder * Approximately 70% traditional storybook painting and 30% polished modern illustration Please avoid: * Pixar or CGI appearance * Anime or manga styling * Chibi proportions * Hyper-realism * Plush toy aesthetics * Cartoon slapstick exaggeration The world should feel believable, magical, and inviting. --- ## Main Character: Russell Russell is an adventurous young hedgehog. ### Appearance * Male * Approximately equivalent to a 10–12 year old child * Reddish-brown quills/spines * Slim, energetic build * Large expressive eyes * Rounded features * Three fingers and a thumb on each hand * Four rounded toes on each foot ### Important Visual Feature Russell's spines glow brighter when he becomes excited. The glow should feel magical and emotional rather than supernatural. ### Personality Russell is: * Curious * Brave (sometimes recklessly so) * Optimistic * Enthusiastic * Determined * Kind-hearted His excitement often gets him into trouble. He frequently points dramatically into the distance when announcing a new adventure. --- ## Supporting Characters ### Alex * Young adult male * Friendly and supportive * Slightly messy blond hair * Light stubble * Outdoorsy but not rugged * More engineer than adventurer Alex cares deeply about Russell and encourages his independence. ### Barry * Chocolate Labrador * Large and lovable * Gentle eyes * Frequently worried * Loves comfort, naps, and safety Barry often appears nervous while Russell charges ahead. ### Dolly * Standard pom-pom poodle * Elegant and well-groomed * Concerned with appearance * Slightly snobbish but secretly enjoys adventure She often pretends she is above everything while clearly being interested. ### Nooma * Barn owl * Wise and calm * Large glowing eyes * Mysterious but kind ### Rasmus and the Rakali Australian water rats who live on the river. * Colourful clothing * Friendly * Energetic * River experts * Strong sense of community Their scenes should feel lively and joyful. --- ## Visual Themes The story should evoke: * Adventure * Discovery * Friendship * Courage * Humour * Wonder The Australian landscape is an important part of the story. Include: * Coastal beaches * Bushland * Forests * Rivers * Native wildlife --- ## Key Illustrations Suggested full-page or major illustrations: 1. Russell announcing his plan to leave home. 2. First surfing lesson with Sunny. 3. Russell wiping out spectacularly in the waves. 4. Russell and Sarah jumping from the plane. 5. Russell floating peacefully beneath the parachute. 6. Russell terrified in the dark forest. 7. First meeting with Nooma. 8. Russell falling from the moss-covered log. 9. Rakali rescuing Russell from the river. 10. White-water river race. 11. Barry discovering his courage. 12. Russell returning home full of stories. --- ## Emotional Goal Children should finish the book feeling: * Excited about adventure * Curious about the world * Encouraged to try new things * Connected to Russell The illustrations should help children fall in love with Russell and want to follow him on future adventures.